Central Coast Mariners have announced the double-signing of twin brothers Alexi and James Houridis on one-year scholarship deals ahead of the Isuzu UTE A-League 2025-26 season.
The brothers have played their recent football together at Melbourne Victory, gaining valuable experience in NPL Victoria.
The 17-year-olds have caught the eye in their state, helping Victoria Under-15s to the Nationals title in 2023, with Alexi named player of the tournament.
Both have also represented Australia with the Joeys, going to two camps and winning the ASEAN U16 Boys Championship in Indonesia in 2024, alongside young Mariners duo Haine Eames and Jai Ajanovic.
In 2024, it also saw Alexi and James given the opportunity to trial with German giants Bayern Munich. They now arrive on the Coast eager to get going and improve.
2025-26 FIXTURE RELEASE
FULL FIXTURES: Every match of the Isuzu UTE A-League 25-26 season here
DERBY DATES: The matches to circle in your calendar now
FIRST 5 FIXTURES: Your Isuzu UTE A-League team’s start to the 2025-26 season
FINALS SERIES: 2025-26 structure and dates
TRANSFER CENTRE: Your club’s ins/outs ahead of the upcoming season
Speaking for the first time as a Mariners player, James spoke about day one at the club and how he wants to improve this season:
“I’m really excited to be here at the Mariners and I’m grateful for this opportunity they have given me,” he said.
“The first day here has been great, the boys were really welcoming, and Jacko and the staff gave me a great first impression of the club.
“For me this season, I just want to work hard, keep improving my craft, give everything to the club and the Mariners supporters, and help the team achieve something special.”
Alexi also touched on his positive first impression of the club and his aspirations for the season.
“I’m very excited to be at the Mariners, it’s a big moment for me and the whole family,” Alexi said.
“From the moment we arrived, the coaches and players have been very welcoming, which has made it very easy to settle in, and it’s clear to see the professionalism and high standards here.
“Our first meeting with Jacko (Mariners head coach Mark Jackson) was extremely positive, he is clear in his vision and that makes me motivated to work with a coach who sets high standards and genuinely supports his players.
“My goals for this season my goals are to make my A-League debut, keep developing by learning from the coaches and players around me, and give 100% every time I step on the pitch to help the team succeed.
“With that, hopefully we can push towards the top of the table, but right now we are fully focussed on our huge first round fixture.”
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